Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf is the ultimate fusion of two beloved comfort foods—classic meatloaf and the iconic Philly cheesesteak sandwich. This hearty dish captures the flavors of the famous Philadelphia sandwich and transforms them into a rich, flavorful meatloaf that is easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish is bound to become a household favorite.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ lbs ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 small green bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1 cup mushrooms, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- ½ cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 cup shredded provolone cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté onions, green bell pepper, mushrooms, and garlic until soft, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, oregano, and garlic powder. Mix until just combined.
- Stir in the sautéed vegetables and half of the provolone cheese.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in the prepared pan.
- Bake for 40 minutes, then top with remaining provolone and mozzarella cheese.
- Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 50 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Kcal: 365 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
The Origins of the Philly Cheesesteak and Its Influence on Meatloaf
The Philly cheesesteak is one of the most well-known and cherished American sandwiches, originating in Philadelphia in the 1930s. Traditionally made with thinly sliced ribeye steak, caramelized onions, and gooey melted cheese on a hoagie roll, this sandwich has inspired many variations, including casseroles, dips, and even meatloaf.
Meatloaf, on the other hand, has long been a staple of American cuisine, dating back to colonial times when European settlers brought the concept of mixing ground meat with bread or grains. It gained popularity during the Great Depression due to its affordability and versatility. By combining the best elements of both dishes, the Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf offers a nostalgic yet innovative twist on two time-honored classics.
What Makes Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf Special?
What sets this meatloaf apart from the traditional version is its incredible combination of flavors. Instead of the usual ketchup or tomato-based glaze, this recipe is infused with the savory and slightly smoky taste of Worcestershire sauce, sautéed onions, bell peppers, mushrooms, and a blend of cheeses—typically provolone or American cheese. These ingredients mimic the signature taste of a Philly cheesesteak while maintaining the comforting texture of meatloaf.
Another reason why this dish stands out is its ability to retain moisture. Traditional meatloaf can sometimes turn out dry if not prepared correctly, but this version benefits from the natural juiciness of the sautéed vegetables and cheese. The result is a tender, cheesy, and flavorful meatloaf with a slightly crisp exterior and a gooey, melt-in-your-mouth interior.
Best Cheese Choices for Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf
One of the key aspects of a great Philly cheesesteak-inspired dish is the cheese selection. Here are some of the best options:
- Provolone: This is the most traditional cheese used in Philly cheesesteaks. It melts beautifully and has a mild, slightly sharp taste.
- American Cheese: Known for its creamy texture, this cheese provides a classic, melt-in-your-mouth experience.
- Cheez Whiz: While not commonly used in meatloaf, some Philly cheesesteak purists swear by it. It adds a unique tangy flavor and a velvety consistency.
- Mozzarella: If you prefer a milder, stretchy cheese, mozzarella is an excellent choice for extra gooeyness.
Serving Suggestions
Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are some delicious options to serve alongside it:
- Mashed Potatoes: A classic pairing for meatloaf, creamy mashed potatoes balance out the rich, savory flavors.
- Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots adds a nutritious and colorful touch.
- Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread or a buttered roll complements the cheesesteak-inspired flavors.
- Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw with a tangy dressing cuts through the richness of the meatloaf.
- French Fries: For a true Philly cheesesteak experience, serve the meatloaf with crispy fries on the side.
How to Store and Reheat Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf
This dish is perfect for meal prep and can be stored easily for later enjoyment. Here’s how to keep it fresh:
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Wrap slices of meatloaf in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Reheat individual slices in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes until warmed through.
Creative Variations of Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf
If you love experimenting in the kitchen, here are a few ways to customize your Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf:
- Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- Low-Carb Version: Use almond flour or crushed pork rinds instead of breadcrumbs for a keto-friendly option.
- Turkey or Chicken Alternative: Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
- BBQ-Style: Mix in a bit of barbecue sauce for a smoky, tangy twist.
- Bacon-Wrapped: Wrap the meatloaf in bacon before baking for an extra indulgent treat.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf is the perfect combination of bold flavors and satisfying textures. It brings together the rich umami of beef, the sweetness of caramelized onions, the mild crunch of bell peppers, and the creamy goodness of melted cheese. Unlike a traditional Philly cheesesteak, which requires careful assembly and is best enjoyed fresh, this meatloaf version allows you to prepare the dish ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week.
This dish is also a great way to introduce picky eaters to new flavors. If you have family members who are hesitant about trying bell peppers or mushrooms, this recipe incorporates them in a way that enhances the meatloaf’s taste without overpowering it. The melty cheese also makes every bite more inviting, ensuring that even the most selective eaters will be asking for seconds.
Conclusion
Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf is a must-try recipe for anyone who loves comfort food with a twist. By blending the beloved flavors of a Philly cheesesteak with the heartiness of meatloaf, this dish delivers the best of both worlds. It’s easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and perfect for feeding a family or meal prepping for busy days.
Whether you’re a fan of traditional meatloaf or just looking for a new way to enjoy the flavors of a Philly cheesesteak, this recipe is sure to impress. Try it out today, and bring a taste of Philadelphia to your dinner table!
